Best Local & Traditional Foods to Try in Charleston
Discover the 6 best local and traditional foods to try in Charleston. Get AI-powered recommendations for authentic dishes, traditional cuisine, and the best restaurants.
Shrimp and Grits
This iconic Lowcountry dish features succulent shrimp sautéed with a savory sauce and served over creamy, buttery grits. It's a staple in Charleston that showcases the region's coastal flavors and Southern hospitality.
Ingredients
Best Time
lunch or dinner
Cultural Significance
A true representation of Lowcountry cuisine, blending African, Native American, and European influences.
Where to try it
She-Crab Soup
This rich and creamy soup is made with blue crab meat and a splash of sherry, typically topped with a sprinkle of crab roe. It's a seasonal favorite that reflects Charleston's seafood heritage.
Ingredients
Best Time
dinner
Cultural Significance
Often considered a local delicacy, it embodies the flavors of the Lowcountry's coastal waters.
Where to try it
Lowcountry Boil
A festive dish, the Lowcountry boil is a one-pot meal featuring shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes, all boiled together with spices. It's perfect for gatherings and showcases the region's bounty.
Ingredients
Best Time
anytime
Cultural Significance
It reflects the communal spirit of Charleston, often enjoyed at family gatherings and outdoor events.
Where to try it
Pecan Pie
A classic Southern dessert, Charleston's pecan pie is rich and sweet, made with a buttery crust and a gooey filling loaded with pecans. It's a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Best Time
dessert
Cultural Significance
Pecan pie represents the agricultural heritage of the South, where pecan trees flourish.
Where to try it
Benne Wafer
These crispy cookies made from sesame seeds are a traditional Charleston treat, often enjoyed with tea. They have a delightful crunch and a subtly sweet flavor, making them a local favorite.
Ingredients
Best Time
snack or dessert
Cultural Significance
Benne wafers trace their roots to African traditions in the Lowcountry, symbolizing good luck and prosperity.
Where to try it
Sweet Tea
Charleston's sweet tea is a refreshing staple, made with black tea, sugar, and often served over ice. It's the perfect accompaniment to any Southern meal and embodies Southern hospitality.
Ingredients
Best Time
anytime
Cultural Significance
Sweet tea is a cultural symbol of the South, often associated with gatherings and hospitality.